Blisters : First aid-Conditions-Prevention
What are Blisters: First aid?
Blisters: First aid is a crucial topic to understand, especially for those who engage in physically demanding activities or work in certain environments. A blister is a small pocket of fluid that forms beneath the upper layers of the skin. They are commonly caused by friction, heat, or freezing temperatures. When a blister forms, it is important to provide proper first aid to prevent infection and facilitate healing.
If a blister is not too painful, try to keep it intact. If the skin is broken, cover it with an adhesive bandage or moleskin. Cut a piece of moleskin into a doughnut shape and place it so that it surrounds the blister. If you get a blister, cover it with medical tape and then put a bandage over it.
If the blister looks infected, go see a doctor. If you have diabetes or poor circulation, call your doctor before trying to treat the blister yourself.
Causes blisters
Blisters can be caused by:
friction to the skin
heat – for example, from sunburn or a scald
contact with chemicals, such as detergent
medical conditions, such as chickenpox and impetigo
Read more about what causes blisters.
If you have a blister, here's how to drain it.
Removing the fluid from a blister will relieve pain. Here's how: 1. Drain the fluid from the blister while leaving the overlying skin intact.
Wash your hands and the blisterWash the leaves with soap and warm water.
Swab the blister with iodine.
Sterilize a clean, sharp needle by wiping it with rubbing alcohol.
Use the needle to puncture the blister.Pour the fluid over the blister and leave the top layer of skin intact.
Apply an ointmentIf a rash appears, apply petroleum jelly to the blister and cover it with a bandage made of nonstick material.
Follow-up care.Make sure to check the area every day for infection. If there is any infection, remove all the dead skin using tweezers and scissors that have been sterilized with rubbing alcohol. Apply more ointment and a bandage.
Blister prevention
To avoid friction blisters on your feet, wear shoes that fit well and socks that are moisture-wicking. You can also try various socks and shoe attachments designed to reduce blistering.You could try attaching moleskin to the inside of your shoes where they might rub. Put talcum powder inside your socks so that it will get on your feet. Gloves will help protect your hands from getting blisters.
- Emergency essentials : First-aid kits-Emergency health information
- First Aid : Types of first aid - First aid conditions